A great and frightening book. Here is an excerpt that really drove it home for me:

In war boots; in flight, a place in the boat or a seat on the lorry may be the most vital thing in the world. More desirable than untold millions.

In hyperinflation a kilo of potatoes was worth, to some, more than the family silver.

A side of pork more than the grand piano.

A prostitute in the family was better than an infant corpse.

Theft was preferable to starvation.

Warmth was finer than honor.

Clothing more essential than democracy.

Food more needed than freedom.

(Adam Ferguson, When Money Dies)